The Cyber Crime Investigation Division of the Criminal Investigation Department, Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) apprehended a local man believed to be the mastermind behind a series of impersonation and fraud cases, including posing as high-ranking government officials and conducting fraudulent transactions on social media platforms.
The suspect allegedly used WhatsApp to contact victims, introducing himself as a senior government officer.
He would request services such as hiring domestic helpers, installing air conditioners, and hanging window curtains.
Subsequently, victims were offered expedited services for bringing in domestic helpers, securing equipment tenders, or obtaining citizenship in exchange for money to be transferred to unknown accounts.
The successful arrest led the department to dismantle a bank account rental syndicate, resulting in the capture of five additional local suspects connected to the impersonation cases.
Authorities identified 16 bank accounts used for online fraud and gambling activities.
Reported losses amount to BND93,471.
The RBPF has advised the public against renting out bank accounts or registering mobile numbers for others’ use.
Account holders found guilty could be prosecuted under Section 3 of the Money Laundering Act, Criminal Asset Recovery Order, 2012, facing penalties of up to BND500,000 in fines,
imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both.
Additionally, they could be charged under Section 417 for fraud, which carries a prison term of up to three years, and a fine.
The RBPF also reminded the public to remain vigilant and not fall for syndicate tactics using social media and online networks to offer goods or services at low prices, adding that payments should never be made without verification or proof of the offered goods or services. – Fadley Faisal
